Valentine Public Library receives multi-million dollar gift

VALENTINE, Neb. - The Valentine Library Foundation is changing its name to the Karl Busch Library Foundation after Busch left $3 million to the organization following his death. Library leaders say the gift will allow the library to grow its offerings and address long-term building needs.

“There aren’t many opportunities in life to give to something that will have an impact for generations, and Karl’s gift is one of those,” said Valentine Public Library Director Carrie Graham.

Library Foundation President Shannon Boes said the library plays a vital role in the community, offering far more than books.

“There are so many activities the library does that impact the entire community, kids and adults alike,” Boes said.

Busch, who died in 2022, was a regular library patron and lifelong learner. Friends say he loved books so much that his home was filled with them.

“When we cleaned out his house, his cabinets were full of books,” said Edna Conner.

Gary and Edna Conner were Busch’s next-door neighbors and close friends for nearly 50 years. They even shared a cat and often celebrated January birthdays together.

“He always wanted to have fun,” Edna said. “He tried to make everything fun.”

In addition to his love of reading, Busch had a passion for music. He traveled the world studying, teaching and performing before eventually returning to his hometown of Valentine.

“He was always playing music,” Edna said. “We’d hear it coming through the apartment window.”

Above all, the Conners say Busch should be remembered for his kindness and generosity.

Library officials say discussions are ongoing about how the donation will be used, but plans likely include building improvements, expanded programming and additional services for the community.

“It’s going to allow us to expand our programming, especially adult programming, which I feel like there’s a lack of things for adults to do in town,” Graham said.

Boes said Busch’s gift will leave a lasting mark on Valentine.

“It’s an extremely generous gift that will impact our entire community for generations to come,” she said.